If you’re in the market for replacement windows, you might be considering Weather Shield, a window provider with an extensive history in the industry. Weather Shield has been serving customers since 1955, offering affordable aluminum and wood windows and patio doors. While company history is important when determining which window provider to pick, it’s critical to consider pricing, reputation, product lines, warranties, and other factors.
Keep reading for my comprehensive review of this Wisconsin-based manufacturer’s products, prices, customer reviews, services, and more, so you have all the information you need to decide whether this company is the right choice to replace your windows.
Our Preferred Window Brands
Today’s Homeowner recommends several window companies to our readers. Below you’ll see our latest suggestions and what makes each provider stand out. You can also explore our review of the best window brands to determine your perfect fit.
4.1
Exclusive Fibrex framing
A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
Team of certified installers
4.3
Impressive customer ratings
Lifetime window warranties
Large catalog of additional remodeling services
4.3
Offers wood and vinyl framing
Outstanding customizability
Seven glass options
My Review of Weather Shield
Total Score: 56.5 / 100 points
Weather Shield shines thanks to its affordable price points and low-maintenance extruded aluminum-clad wood windows. For many homeowners, price and maintenance requirements are a top priority when considering what window provider is best for their new windows, so these are significant pluses.
However, I don’t like that Weather Shield doesn’t offer many service options, which is a pain for homeowners looking to hire in-house contractors. Other window providers, like Andersen Windows, offer the choice to work directly with the company, which is far more convenient when arranging your window replacement.
Overall, Weather Shield stands out for its reasonable prices, low-maintenance windows, and solid 20-year window product warranty.
What I Liked and Didn’t Like
Navigate the tabs below for my analysis of Weather Shield’s benefits and drawbacks. I cover the good and bad aspects of the company to help you make an educated buying decision.
Score: 27 / 40 points
Weather Shield Windows & Doors offers a substantial range of window products, including a unique 90° window to open up a corner in your home. Its aluminum-clad wood windows are a solid choice for many homeowners — they’re more affordable than pure wood windows, prevent wood rot, and require much less maintenance.
Homeowners interested in garden windows, bay or bow windows, and single-hung windows will need to choose a different window provider. The company doesn’t make any custom or made-to-order windows or take on specialty projects. This is a significant downside for homeowners with unique window sizing requirements.
Score: 3 / 10 points
Weather Shield offers many educational resources on its website, making it an excellent resource for homeowners up for tackling DIY window installation. You’ll even find detailed maintenance guides to help you care for your windows post-installation, which are useful resources for homeowners that want to maximize the lifespan of their new windows.
As a window manufacturer, Weather Shield doesn’t provide any service options. You’ll need to rely on your dealer for these services or hire an independent contractor to do your Weather Shield window installation, which is an added hassle.
Score: 10 / 25 points
Weather Shield has excellent prices — windows typically cost between $550 and $849. These are incredibly reasonable rates for the window industry, making Weather Shield a strong contender for budget-conscious homeowners.
Despite its affordable pricing, Weather Shield scored lower in this category than other window providers because of its lack of custom financing options and discounts. If you’re looking for sales or custom financing, you’ll need to check with your local dealer to see if it can provide these perks.
Score: 8 / 10 points
Weather Shield has a generous 30 years of warranty coverage for wood shield clad wood products, which is a far more generous coverage period than many providers. I like that its products all have a 20-year warranty, which makes understanding its policies simple, even if you purchase multiple window series or window types.
Weather Shield doesn’t install its products, so no installation warranty is available. Although it boasts a 20-year warranty, the fine print shows that some of its window parts are covered for as little as one year, an extremely short warranty period that stacks up poorly against other window providers.
Score: 8.5 / 15 points
Weather Shield has been in business since 1955 and is a family-owned business. I like that the company has been around for decades and that the family is actively involved in the company’s day-to-day operations, which speaks to its product quality and customer service.
Weather Shield has a poor C- rating and a one out of five-star average customer rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which I find concerning. Many customers also criticized the company for not upholding its warranty or having poor window quality, which isn’t reassuring.
How Much Do Weather Shield Windows Cost?
On average, I found that Weather Shield windows cost between $550 and $849, but these prices vary depending on the window material, type of window, and the local dealer’s pricing.
Here are a few examples of what you can expect the average cost to be for different types of Weather Shield windows:
Type of Weather Shield Window | Average Cost |
Aluminum-clad sliding windows | $550–$1,500 |
Wood double-hung windows | $440–$1,000 |
Wood casement windows | $450–$950 |
Awning windows | $300–$700 |
Direct set/picture windows | $600–$1,200 |
Overall, Weather Shield windows are an affordable choice for many homeowners on a budget, as long as you can find the windows that are right for your home.
Weather Shield Financing
Weather Shield is strictly a window manufacturer, so the company doesn’t directly sell its windows to homeowners. Instead, you’ll purchase the windows through an authorized dealer.
Custom financing and discounts may be available on a case-by-case basis with your local dealer.
What Types of Windows Does Weather Shield Offer?
Here are the standard window types Weather Shield offers:
90° Corner Windows
90° corner windows add visual interest to the corners of your home by opening them up with glass, improving a home’s curb appeal and outdoor views.
Awning Windows
Awning windows have one sash hinged at the top that swings open from the bottom, creating the visual appearance of an awning when open.
Casement Windows
Casement windows operate with a hand crank and hinge on one side. These windows can be installed as solitary windows or in combination with picture or awning windows.
Direct Set Windows
Direct set windows, or picture windows, are stationary windows that open a room to take in lots of light and “frame” the outside, making them a great focal point in any room.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows have two sashes that slide up and down, providing plenty of fresh air.
Pass-Through Windows
Pass-through windows slide, fold, or crank open to open your home to the outdoors or connect two adjoining interior spaces.
Slider Windows
Slider windows slide open to one side, allowing plenty of ventilation and light into your home.
What Materials Does Weather Shield Use in Its Windows?
Weather Shield doesn’t offer vinyl window choices, which is unfortunate because many homeowners appreciate the lower-than-average price point that vinyl windows feature. Still, the company offers two window material options that suffice for many homeowners shopping for new replacement windows: aluminum and aluminum-clad wood.
Aluminum
Aluminum-clad windows are ideal for homes in harsher climates as weather-resistant aluminum is a robust and durable material. Weather Shield offers three aluminum-clad window lines with different types of insulated glass so you can save on energy bills while protecting your home with durable aluminum window frames.
Aluminum-Clad Wood Windows
Wood windows are an excellent choice for homeowners interested in a classic look who want flexibility with design choices, as many wood windows can be stained.
Weather Shield’s wood window options have a vast number of wood types available. You can select from alder, cherry, pine, oak, maple, and mahogany.
How Energy-Efficient Are Weather Shield’s Windows?
Weather Shield is an ENERGY STAR partner. Its windows are rated, labeled, and certified for U-Value and Solar Heat Gain by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Depending on your climate zone, you can expect to save between 8% and 17% when replacing clear double-pane windows with NFRC-rated windows and even more if you’re replacing single-pane windows.
With Weather Shield’s many energy-efficient window options, homeowners can easily save on energy costs and reduce furniture fading.
Soundproofing and Insulation of Weather Shield Windows
Weather Shield’s website doesn’t provide specific information about its windows’ soundproofing capabilities. However, it offers double-pane window options, which help insulate and soundproof your home more effectively than single-pane glass windows.
Weather Shield Windows Series
Weather Shield has four main product lines for various needs and aesthetics. When shopping with Weather Shield, you can trust that you’ll find a window product that matches your home and budget.
Here are Weather Shield’s four main product series and a breakdown of each’s offerings:
Series | Types | Materials | Best For |
Vue Collection | Awning, casement, direct set, 90° corner, pass-through | Aluminum | A modern, sleek design |
Contemporary Collection | Awning, casement, direct set, 90° corner, pass-through | Aluminum-clad wood | Expansive views |
Premium Series | Awning, casement, direct set, double-hung, slider, pass-through | Aluminum-clad wood | Homeowners interested in the most-advanced energy-efficiency features |
Signature Series | Awning, casement, direct set, double-hung | Aluminum-clad wood | A home with classic design aesthetics |
Does Weather Shield Offer Window Customization?
Weather Shield offers basic window customization options, including many grille, hardware, and color finish choices like anodized aluminum, radiant metallic, and designer aluminum.
An unusual window customization choice Weather Shield provides is its selection of screen options. For example, in the brand’s Vue Collection, you can upgrade from standard UltraVue fiberglass mesh to the tougher pet- and tear-resistant Tuffscreen mesh, a better option for homeowners with kids or pets.
The verdict: Weather Shield has ample window customization options but doesn’t offer unique windows like shape windows or curtain walls. If you have specialized window needs, you may need to look elsewhere.
Weather Shield Consultation and Installation Process
Weather Shield is a Wisconsin-based window manufacturer that doesn’t offer in-house installation. The company doesn’t even provide a free consultation, which is unusual in the window industry, leaving many homeowners dependent on local dealers.
If you’re interested in Weather Shield, speak with your local dealer about its consultation and installation process to assess your options.
Does Weather Shield Offer a Good Warranty?
Weather Shield offers a standard 20-year glass warranty.
Upon examining the fine print, I found that other parts of Weather Shield products, like the laminated and decorative glass and retractable screens, are only covered for five years, which is far too little for such a big investment. Glass stress cracks are only covered for one year, a shockingly small coverage period compared to other providers.
Weather Shield also has no workmanship warranty, which leaves you vulnerable if anything goes wrong due to improper installation.
Overall, Weather Shield provides a poor product warranty that doesn’t stand up against its competition, especially with some competitors providing workmanship and lifetime warranties.
Weather Shield Customer Reviews
Reading customer reviews can quickly send you down the rabbit hole, scrolling through and reading the best and worst things people have to say. While I advise you to read reviews with caution, they’re helpful in gathering an overall feel for a brand.
Positive Reviews of Weather Shield
Generally, positive reviews of this company focus on reliable customer service, excellent educational resources, and satisfaction with Weather Shield’s competitive pricing. These reviews stack up well against many window providers, especially more expensive brands like Pella or Marvin Windows, where customers often gripe that the windows weren’t worth the high price.
Negative Reviews of Weather Shield
Weather Shield is repeatedly criticized for not upholding warranty claims, likely due to the extensive fine print of its warranties. Many customers were also unhappy with how warranty claims were handled, citing that they were either dismissed or sent a replacement part and expected to install it themselves, making me uneasy about Weather Shield’s warranty process.
How Do Weather Shield’s Windows Compare to Competitors?
Reference the following table to see how Weather Shield compares with its competitors in BBB rating, pricing, and much more.
Renewal by Andersen | Champion | Window Nation | Universal Windows Direct | Window World | Castle Windows | Weather Shield | |
Our Rating | 4.1 | 4.3 | 3.8 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 3.9 | 2.825 |
Average Price Per Window | $1,200+ | $850+ | $550+ | $350+ | $550+ | $550+ | $550+ |
Offers Custom Financing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Warranty | 20-year glass/parts 10-year hardware 2-year installation | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Lifetime Plus Warranty | True Lifetime Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Lifetime Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
BBB Rating | A+ | NR | NR | A- | A+ | A+ | C- |
So, Is Weather Shield Worth It for Your Home?
After completing hours of research, I’ve determined that Weather Shield isn’t worth it for most homeowners. While the company’s reasonable pricing and low-maintenance windows are attractive options, I can’t confidently recommend the brand due to its below-average Better Business Bureau rating, many negative customer reviews, and poor warranty policies.
If you’re considering different window choices, we suggest you read our detailed review of Sears windows. Our aim is to assist you in finding the perfect window solution that matches your specific requirements and preferences.
If you’re on a tight budget, I recommend looking into other budget-friendly window providers like Window Nation and Universal Window Direct, as these companies offer similar pricing and feature excellent customer reviews. Many reputable providers, like Renewal by Andersen and Champion, offer affordable windows with top-notch customer service and warranties. Make sure to get at least three free quotes before deciding.
4.1
Exclusive Fibrex framing
A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
Team of certified installers
4.3
Impressive customer ratings
Lifetime window warranties
Large catalog of additional remodeling services
4.3
Offers wood and vinyl framing
Outstanding customizability
Seven glass options
FAQs: Weather Shield Reviews
How long do Weather Shield windows last?
Most Weather Shield windows last at least 20 to 30 years with good upkeep. The company’s aluminum-clad windows are durable and prevent wood rot, which can quickly destroy a window.
What are the benefits of a Weather Shield window?
Weather Shield’s windows and doors, like its French doors and patio doors, are built to prevent air infiltration, helping to reduce energy costs. This company also provides energy-efficient options like glazing, tinted windows, and Low-E glazed windows to reduce furniture fading and energy bills, which is important to many homeowners looking to cut back on expenses.
What are the dimensions of Weather Shield windows?
Weather Shield doesn’t offer custom-made windows but has many available sizes for each window type. For example, its double-hung windows are available in operating sizes up to 60 inches by 120 inches.
Methodology: How We Rank Window Companies
At Today’s Homeowner, we strive to bring you the most transparent, accurate information for your home improvement projects. Our window company ratings emphasize what matters most to you — a wide range of well-designed products with reliable installation and great curb appeal.
Our ratings are based on publicly available information about each company, secret shopping online and over the phone, customer-review analysis, and discussions with renovation and building experts. A company can earn a maximum of 100 points across five categories, converted to a five-star scale. We researched dozens of windows installation and replacement companies to develop the following formula:
- Product Offerings (30 points): Window installers can earn the maximum point value in this category if they offer a wide variety of window styles, frame materials, hardware designs, and glass and coating options. Companies earn more points if they design custom windows for your home. We also score the quality and energy efficiency of the windows each company installs.
- Service Offerings (10 points): When evaluating this category, we consider factors such as consultations, post-installation cleanup, and additional product offerings. We also look at each company's installation team structure — including whether it uses certified window installers or subcontractors to complete work — as this can cause variances in quality.
- Affordability (25 points): Our affordability rating considers the provider’s average window prices and how they align with industry averages, as well as discounts and payment plans.
- Warranty and Support (20 points): A best-in-class window installer backs up its work with a solid warranty to give you added peace of mind. Companies receive the maximum point value in this category if they offer lifetime warranties for their products and workmanship.
- Company Reputation (15 points): To ensure we’re recommending worthwhile installers, we check each company’s reputation and standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We also consider how many years of experience it has in the window industry.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.